Dugout Discussion – Chelsea vs Watford

The seven-day Gameweek rolls on with a Monday night date under the lights of Stamford Bridge – the new home of the Premier League champions.

While tonight will doubtless witness scenes of celebration, Antonio Conte has given us Fantasy managers little to cheer with his team selection for the clash with Watford.

We were anticipating changes but a total of nine exceeds even our worst fears as a cast of premium assets get relegated to the bench or the stands.

They include the two top scoring defenders – Marcos Alonso and Gary Cahill – as Chelsea legend John Terry earns a run-out.

The Blues most popular player – striker Diego Costa – is also sat on the timber with Friday’s Hawthorns hero, Michy Batshuayi, leading the attack.

There are, however, some exceptions, with Cesar Azpilicueta and most notably, and surprisingly, Eden Hazard, retaining starting roles.

It remains to be seen how this impacts on their prospects for Gameweek 38 but, for now, their owners will be thankful of the possibility for returns in this evening’s clash.

Just what they can produce in such a weakened line-up remains to be seen. Watford certainly arrive in London in no great shakes – losing their last four without a single goal scored, although Chelsea’s teamsheet will surely give them a lift.